Outline for Sabbath School Teachers with ideas for group discussion inspired by the Teachers’ Edition

of the Sabbath School Lesson prepared by the General Conference SS ministry.

Lesson n. 04 18-24 April 2020 Title: The Bible – the Authoritative Source of Our TheologyKey texts: Isaiah 8:20; Mark 7:1-13; John 5:46,47; 7:38; 1 John 2:15-17.

A. Themes to Explore: 1. There is no Christian denomination that does not make reference to the Bible as part of their

identity, nevertheless the results are different.2. Tradition, personal experience, culture and reason are among the principle factors which influence

our thought patterns when we dedicate ourselves to important things, including questions of faith, religion and the Bible. We are all conditioned.

3. Jesus who is the theme of Scripture is also our guide to it – He is the criterion and the model for understanding Scripture.

B. Learning Objectives 1. Identify possible criteria that could protect our understanding of Biblical truths from depending

on our experience, our reason or our traditions.

C. Possible questions for deeper study, debate, reflection and sharing of the Word1. How can we tread a healthy road that keeps our tradition separate from a correct understanding

of the Bible? 2. How can we be safe from suggestions, traditions or culture when interpreting the Bible? What can

we learn from Jesus in this regard?3. How can we discern if our experiences and perceptions about certain values and principles are in

harmony with the Bible?4. What arguments can you use in order to present the primacy of the Bible to others without being

closed, exclusive or imposing your views.

Translator: Cathy Bertolini